Cancer occurs in the body when its cells begin to grow out of control. This can happen to cells in nearly any part of the body, and has the ability to spread to various areas. Multiple myeloma (MM) is a cancer that is found in plasma cells. When these malignant plasma cells are formed, they grow uncontrollably and produce what is known as a specific tumor called a plasmacytoma. These tumors usually develop and are found in bone. While it is rare for plasmacytomas to be found in tissue, it is possible.
Multiple myeloma is a rare cancer, yet it has been proven that African Americans are twice as likely to be diagnosed, when being compared to white Americans. In fact, Myeloma Central has concluded that in the United States, African Americans represent about 20 percent of the population living with multiple myeloma.
Recurrent multiple myeloma, also known as relapsed multiple myeloma, is when the plasmacytomas return after a period of remission or treatment. Since multiple myeloma does not have a cure, it is likely for it to return. In order to address the population of people diagnosed with MM, it must begin with awareness of the signs and symptoms to determine when to seek medical attention.
WATCH: African Americans & Multiple Myeloma with Dr. Craig Cole
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Signs
Signs are considered objective medical evidence that is found when a patient is examined. According to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, there are two types of asymptomatic multiple myeloma that have signs but no symptoms: active myeloma and smoldering myeloma.
Active Myeloma contains about ten percent of abnormal plasma cells that is found in the bone marrow, along with one or more of the following signs: increased calcium in the bloodstream, anemia, bone damage, kidney damage and at least 60 percent abnormal plasma are found in the bone marrow.
Smoldering myeloma, on the other hand, has a M- protein increase in the bloodstream, 10 to 60 percent of abnormal plasma cells are found in the bone marrow, and increased Bence Jones protein is found in the urine.
Symptoms
Symptoms, however, are subjective feelings that a patient experiences before they seek medical attention. The most common multiple myeloma symptoms, according to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF), include:
- Loss of appetite
- Frequent urination
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea/vomitig
- Bone pain or bone fractures
- Fatigue
- Impaired kidney function
Detecting Recurrence Early
Because symptoms can be silent, it is important for a person who is in remission to work closely with their doctor to watch, or use surveillance, to monitor their health every 3 to 6 months. According to the National Cancer Institute, surveillance is using regular exams and tests to detect early signs of MM.
Recommended tests for asymptomatic MM include blood chemistry tests (BUN, creatine, calcium), complete blood count with differential, bone survey annually or more often if symptoms are present, urine tests, and MRI as needed.
